Detroit Lions FB James Bryant and TE Will Heller may compete for one roster spot during training camp because both can play in the backfield as a fullback. Bryant will have to show he is a good blocker and can be a successful short yardage back to beat Heller for the spot.

Despite the signing of FB James Bryant during the offseason, the Detroit Lions are expected to use TE Will Heller at both the fullback and tight end positions. Bryant might be ticketed for the practice squad.

Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said Friday, June 22, that the key is finding creative ways to get the most of the fullback position. They did not have a fullback on the roster previously until signing FB James Bryant during the offseason. "(TE Will Heller) lined up in the backfield an awful lot for us last year," Schwartz said. "We've done that an awful lot. I think the whole key is having players that can do a lot of different things. The days of having a fullback that can only be a lead blocker are sort of gone. The fullbacks around now are more multi-dimensional players."

The Detroit Lions view FB James Bryant as an offseason project. The former CFL player, arena football leaguer and boxer don't use a traditional fullback in their offense. However, running backs coach Sam Gash convinced the team to bring him on board. General manager Martin Mayhew said Bryant will have to contribute in other areas, too, because the Lions only use a fullback maybe a dozen times per game. Mayhew added Bryant may have to contribute on special teams at a very high level or also be able to play tight end. "Whether James makes our team or not, it kind of remains to be seen. We like his skill level. We like his background and profile. Great guy when you meet him and talk to him," Mayhew said.